The Cat of Portovecchio

The Cat of Portovecchio is about basic Greek sentiments, instincts and passions. The story is based in an old fishing suburb of Corfu Town. The sea and the Greek landscape play an important part in the story. So does an abandoned black and white cat. Every character has a story to tell, and very often their lives intersect. There is passion, lost love, a child missing her mother, a priest with bad intentions, families suffering, but doing the best they can with their lives -- and many strong and feisty women. Ten Forfiot recipes are interwoven as part of the story.

Maria Strani Potts offers an insiders view of Corfu society in a time of great political upheaval between 1949 and 1956. This vivid picture of life in a Greek fishing village post-World War II, is rich in insights into traditions, customs, history and daily life, and local idiosyncrasies. Strani Potts has a distinctive voice: worldly and amused, and a warm and witty understanding of the people of whom she writes.